I always lunch when in the area. Try the special it is always good.
(5)
Del D.
So so. Very noisy.
(2)
Evan B.
Great food, bad service. it's very slow but the cheese balls are to die for!!!!
(4)
Theresa K.
A friend and I had a late dinner after catching a movie at the Art Craft theatre. I was nowhere near close to impressed with the beer selection. The most local thing that I saw was Bells Oberon, and I sat through drinking a Red Stripe (nowhere near local, but it was that, your regular domestics, blue moon, etc- From what I can remember) before I saw the bartender open up an Oberon for someone. When I ordered that, the waittress couldn't find it, and I mentioned it might be under the "Bell's Seasonal." For such a specialized little night, going to the Art Craft and The Willard, why would you want to drink something so mainstream? C'Mon, Willard, if you're so special, get some special beer! I ordered a little pizza with chicken and jalapinos. I like that you can choose whatever toppings, and it was pretty affordable (I think $6 or $7). The crust was very round, stiff and hard- sort of like frozen pizza crust. If I ever go back, I'm not going for the pizza. My friend got a mushroom swiss burger. The bun enveloped the burger itself. Eh. Not really impressed at all. I'd come back again and try something else if I were in the area, but I'd probably also just as rather find a another unique place. The ambience was pretty chill. There was a pretty nice outdoor seating area (we sat inside), and they were open late night.
(2)
Randy B.
Good Pizza, fried cheese balls, han-and-cheese, and decent beer selection. I love the patio in the summer (face the East to avoid the sun in your eyes in the afternoon)
(4)
Evan M.
After hearing about this place for years from my Indiana extended family, I finally made the trip and the visit to the Willard. It was breath-taking. A never-ending waterfall of chicken wings, nachos and late night appetizers washed down with beer. A must-stop when in Franklin, IN!
(4)
Kevin C.
Been in Franklin for almost a year before I made it to the Willard for lunch. The historic hotel setting is special for many people and creates a series of smaller dining spaces in addition to the outdoor dining. Have heard the reputation for their pizza, I enjoyed a thin crust pep with sausage that was hot and full of quality ingredients. While the staff was extremely professional, there simply was not enough to keep up with the number of customers the day we went.
(4)
Larry T.
This is the local gathering spot for my co-worker, friends, and I. The pizza is good. Try the spicy "Yahoo" seasoning. The wings are equally good and they have a wide selections of beers to try. There isn't a lot that beats a nice evening on the patio when the weather is good. I'll see you there.
(4)
Duncan G.
Tried the Willard for the first time last night with my wife , our 19 year old college freshmen & her boyfriend. I had heard mostly good things about the Willard so I was anxious to try it. They have no parking lot so it's street parking where you can find it. Early on a Wednesday night it wasn't too hard. Place looks very nice from the outside and the entryway was cool as well. Sign said seat yourself so we did. First thing I noticed was the tables were pretty small for 4 people eating so keep that in mind if you visit. Our waitress was very good during the entire time as were the other staff. I'd give them a 4.5 out of 5. Was more then a bit surprised to hear that there was a charge for refills on soft drinks so I took the waitress's suggestion & ordered a pitcher of Coke. We got 6 bread sticks as an appetizer and they were very good. Seasoned well & with a good consistency.. it was served with either a nacho cheese or marinara dipping sauce on paper plates. it was then time for the entrees. The daughter's bf got a burger & fries which he thought was very good. My wife and daughter got a chicken dish that they were disappointed in due to the over seasoning which left it not tasting right. I had their pizza & I was VERY disappointed. It was the same recipe as the old local Jack's Pizza chain which for me was a bad sign. The sauce was so so, the sausage nothing remarkable and have others have commented on the crust was strangely stiff. Again the service was great but the food just doesn't warrant another trip I'm sorry to say.
(2)
Chris B.
If Franklin had a local Mount Rushmore of eateries, this would be on it. Next to the Willard would be Don and Donas, Ann's Restaurant, and Richards Kitchen. As these four Presidential pals conveyed for great food, the land was infected and overrun with delicious atmosphere and taste. The Willard was a former hotel that has been turned into a resturaunt/bar. The food is pretty Americanized but is America at its best. The wings as well as the pizza are highly suggested by pretty much anyone. The Willard also has a yearly haunted house that I would advise attending. All in all, this is palace of tasty.
(4)
Susie H.
Food was good, service pretty quick for a big group. Fried tenderloin didn't seem greasy at all. I'm with the others who question the no-free refills.
(4)
D A P.
I'm mad that Evan reviewed The Willard before me! I too believe in The Willard. First place I ever had a drink in Indiana. Rolled into Franklin Friday night to meet my Hoosier friends (now LBCers) & their family there & I was not disappointed. I felt like I was walking into a big party at someone's house. It is in fact an old 2 story house (see photo) with a great patio right in the middle of town. Servers were nice & quick. We only had munchies: fries, mushrooms & wings. All good. My husband said the wings were great. Loud with music, but not too loud that you couldn't talk. Couple of tvs to watch, not hear, the big game. Always busy, but you can always find a seat. Needs bigger bathrooms. Two stalls? Not enough for those midwestern girls! They can consume many drinks which equals a crowded bathroom. Come on Willard! You have enough room in that big old house to add a 2nd bathroom! I'll be back in June- make it happen. Met the Moore clan there- that was half the occupancy. Learned in Franklin you can just drop the "Moore" name & you're in with the locals!
(4)
Jesse S.
I don't think people in this area use Yelp. I guess there's not much need. LBC must represent. Anyway, for those people in the distant future who happen upon this review, here goes. The Willard is the nicest bar in the area. It closes at midnight, but if you're hammered enough to want to stay up, there are a few other less nice bars within walking distance. If you're not from the area, you're less likely than I am to see your 4th grade teacher drinking here than I've been. Then again, if you're drinking in this town, it's bound to happen. Wings are killer. And that's all I have to say about that.
(4)
Sqirrl B.
Nice outside eating area, very pleasant. The staff could use some basic greeting training. My wrap was good. My coffee was awful - old, with only powdered creamer (ew) offered, and no refills offered. My jalapeño poppers didn't taste really fresh, more like supplied by a service. Dh, though, said his fish platter actually tasted like real seafood. High praise from him. I'd come back, maybe try the pizza next time.
(3)
Ryan B.
Amazing wings amazing pizza great service. Best time is to go is during the week. They get crazy packed
(5)
Jeanie W.
Always a fantastic experience there. Food is amazing and service is efficient and friendly. Get the bbq chicken pizza. It is really good. We love the outdoor seating and the historic building. Location is perfect.
(5)
Susan S.
I feel bad writing this, but.... We have visited the Willard many times in the past. It is only after many experiences I write this. The Willard has demonstrated a consistent pattern of poor service. They do not have a hostess stand. When inquiring they had no idea which tables were open. Because of no hostess stand people would walk in sit down at tables that had not been bussed. Which created confusion for the wait staff of not knowing if those sitting at the table were people hanging out and had finished their meal. Once we get a table it is another fifteen plus minutes till we are greeted and asked for our drink order. The Willard could be a great place but misses the mark.
(1)
Linsey G.
Three stars doesn't seem like near enough, and four stars seems a little generous, but since 3.5 is not an option, I've decided on the latter. I recently went to The Willard with a fairly large group, where the service was pretty great even though our server was noticeably perturbed by our general loudness and chaos -- not necessarily a bad thing, as I totally understood her frustration, but her losing patience with us was certainly noticeable. I enjoyed the outdoor seating, as it proved to be a good space for a larger group. The food was pretty good, too. My mom and I shared a pizza and we loved how much cheese was on it. It seems most pizza places skimp on the cheese anymore, so we were mostly impressed by that.
(4)
Gretchen S.
This place has a good beer selection and a nice atmosphere. The waitress was incredibly pleasant, but the food selection was lacking. Few healthy options and the pizza was terrible! The cheese was tasteless and I couldn't even tell there was any sauce on the pizza. The Hawaiian didn't have much pineapple on it and was overloaded with banana peppers and jalepenos, maybe to make up for the tasteless cheese. I'd come here again to drink but skip the food.
(2)
Debra C.
Service was slow. Food was mediocre. They put an appetizer on our bill that we didn't order. Luckily, we caught it and they corrected it before we paid. Not a great experience.
(2)
Anna O.
A crisp fall day and a historic building contributed to the positive experience more than the food, which was fresh, but unimaginative. Almost felt like de ja vu in Matrix - I have seen and tasted the same house salads, burgers and sandwiches only about a thousand times before, is there an Agent Smith coming around the corner? Grateful to the server who did not forget our lonely group outside and served us promptly and with a smile.
(3)
Heather H.
The area is really cute as is the renovated old hotel. The food is alright. Pub grub. The group I went with all got different sammies and burgers. Nothing special to write about. Just your basic foods. Overall, an affordable spot to stop in and try. Chill atmosphere to catch a game and grab a beer. Good for a casual date night I suppose.
(3)
Katrina A.
The atmosphere is casual and can be a little loud. There isn't a hostess but worth the wait.
(5)
Ian B.
If your looking for great bar food, nice atmosphere and friendly people in Franklin this is your spot. The Building itself is absolutely delightful. It was built in the 1860's and has some great architectural features. The main bar and the additional side bar (evenings and weekends) are right out of the prohibition era and give you that classic feel. The outdoor seating is the place to be though in the spring and summer months. The patrons here range from the locals that everyone knows, bikers making a quick stop for some food and drinks to families of all ages and sizes. The Willard specializes in their pizzas (our favorite is the margarita pizza) and tenderloins but their wings, burgers and pub style finger food is just as good. They do complete their food selection with salads, wraps and sandwiches. The beer selection is not over the top but does beat most places in Franklin. They have the normal light beers, but also carry sun king on tap and a good variety of bottled beer. Only issues we have seen so far is that depending on your server you may get a lack of service when they get really busy. Be patient and you'll be fine. Overall if you want good service, yummy food and awesome atmosphere you'll enjoy yourself here.
(4)
Rachel S.
We ate here last Friday night. We were there from 9:30-10:30 and the place was seriously hoppin the entire time! Great local (indy) and national beer selection. Delicious quick pizza (would have given 5 stars but the cheese could have been crispier/browned on our pizza). Definitely had ingredients under the cheese so made it unique but delicious none the less. Great patio setting! Would definitely go back!
(4)
David W.
Waited 15 minutes. Watched 4 tables come in after us, get served, while we sat. Walked out. Not the first time we've had bad service but will most likely be the last
(1)
Colin B.
Both stars are for the building (which is beautiful!) We walk in and the signs say to seat yourself. It then takes 15 min before someone acknowledges us. We both order cheeseburgers when they come out, there is nothing on them except cheese. No lettuce, tomato, nothing! I asked and they said you have to order all of that. Staff was not rude, but not friendly either. Food was just okay. Nothing special. I might give it another chance, but probably not.
(2)
Bob C.
Slow! Service can be very slow. The cool factor of the building can't carry the slow service or boring food.
(2)
Amber P.
Love The Willard. Great memories here. Fantastic environment, good food, the wait staff is on it as much as they can be when it's so crowded.
(4)
Tammy H.
We were looking for a place open late on Sunday during our drive from kentucky to Indianapolis. Luckily, The Willard was open until 10. The menu had enough variety to make it difficult to choose until our server suggested the cheese bites and the wings. Both were served fast and hot. We had great, friendly service and our meal for two including an app and wine came in at $30 - we'll be back again!
(5)
Tom M.
The negative reviews here baffle me. I heard about this place and happened to be in Franklin, so we stopped in. The atmosphere is unique and worth the visit. You seat yourself, and the server is at your table quickly. The service is friendly and fast. We had the ribeye and tenderloin sandwiches. They were hand cut and prepared. The ribeye was tender and delicious, and the tenderloin was large and hand breaded. We substituted onion rings and had a basket of fried mushrooms as well. Everything was delicious and we will remember this place whenever we are in Franklin. The one odd thing is that there are no free refills for soft drinks except during the lunch hour. So go easy on your soft drink. Highly recommended.
(5)
Celeste T.
It was pleasant to sit outside on the patio during dinner in a rather hot spell (high 80s or low 90s), just enough breeze to act as natural AC. We had a bottle of wine (too sweet) and a pizza with sausage and pepperoni. I agree with a previous reviewer that the crust was a bit too perfect, crisp and weird, much like frozen pizzas. I ended up switching to Woodchuck cider when I couldn't finish the too-sweet wine. I wish I remember what it was, but it was a concord grape wine...I should have known! Service was very nice overall, even though we came at shift change. Bathrooms were clean, and I love the architecture of the old building!
(3)
Erin C.
Perfect location downtown Franklin and the best thin crust in town. The service is so so and it can get really crowded but if you're lucky enough to get a spot on the patio you won't regret it! Good atmosphere and a pretty decent booze selection (for Franklin).
(4)
Scott M.
HISTORIC, FAMILY-OWNED LANDMARK What a great place with a great backstory. Nestled just off downtown Franklin, The Willard transitions the business and historic home districts. The restaurant/pub used to be an old inn in the day and it still maintains that inviting charm. The food is okay and reasonably priced. There is a full bar. The service in both the dining room and barroom depends upon whom is working. If you visit Franklin, The Willard should be a stop.
(4)
April A.
This place has a large beer selection and let me say the cocktails are mixed to perfection. The prices are reasonable and the food is always fresh and tasty. The chips and queso are a must, and they are famous for the pizza. It gets busy so go early.So I suggest you get around 5 or your gonna be waiting for a table.
(5)
Richard H.
If you're in Franklin -- maybe at the Artcraft -- you could do worse than stop in The Willard for a drink. We only had drinks so can't vouch for the food, and the beer list was decent, the drinks just fine. Service was friendly, even though the place was quite busy on Saturday night. The building itself (an old hotel) is very cool, with a particularly awesome sign indoors, and the really drunk people who were there celebrating a fiftieth birthday were awesome.
(3)
Amy L.
Such a disappointing experience. A friend suggested this place since we were going to the theater next door this afternoon. So 5 of us were having lunch and then meeting a few others at the theater for 1 to see the movie. I figured getting there for 12 would give us enough time to have lunch. Nope. Not even close. There seemed to be only 2 waitresses and they kept telling us the computer system was done. Ok, I'm willing to be sympathetic, I've worked in retail, so I understand things can go wrong. Yet it took 15 minutes to get water we ordered. It was another 15 minutes before we even got to place our orders and it was 12:50 when our apps began to arrive. Any time we asked if they had an idea how long, they said the computers were down. And our main waitress had an attitude. We were not rude ever, and yet she never refilled our waters, asked how things were or even made a polite apology, like "I'm sorry this is taking so long, but thanks for your patience." None of the that. It was 1:06 by the time we got our meals. One friend ordered her wings to be a mix of 2 flavors, which the waitress said was ok to do. Yet she got her wings with one flavor, neither of them were the 2 she chose. I ordered a burger (no choice in how it was cooked) and it was tasteless. I had to scarf down that and some of the nachos I had for an app in order to go meet my friends. That was at 1:20. When I left, my friends stayed to get the checks and pay (mine too), the waitress gave them an attitude when they politely asked for their checks. Overall so bummed by the experience.
(1)
Chip M.
8/28/2009 it's hotter than hell inside! Service mediocre at best. Not the best meal I've had locally that's certain ! Two thumbs down!
(1)
Mikel I.
This was a good place before... It is a great place now. They hosted a birthday party for my brother in law and boom it was perfect. Prompt service great food and great prices. We will be using the Willard for a lot more events in the future. If you find yourself in a lunch break or at night looking for dinner I recommend stopping in and getting the pizza or the hot wings!
(5)
Jared T.
I come here for lunch most of the time.... the pizza and the chips and queso are awesome. Parking is a pain right now with road construction.
(5)
Susan S.
I don't get the bad reviews! It's a great place to take a family or have a beer after work. Fabulous prices & good food. Can't wait to go again!
(5)
Chris M.
Pretty good beer selection and really good tenderloin! They do it right and don't pound it out until it is flat and dry. I had no idea this place existed, but if I ever find myself back in franklin I will likely stop in.
(4)
Rick M.
Been there several times and loved it each time. Friendly, attentive staff, good food at a good price, excellent atmosphere. I highly recommend the marinated rib eye steak sandwich and the pizza.
(5)
Heather S.
Eleven years ago I went on a first date with my now husband. It still has great food and a fun atmosphere.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Loud Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes
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Jim F.
I always lunch when in the area. Try the special it is always good.
(5)Del D.
So so. Very noisy.
(2)Evan B.
Great food, bad service. it's very slow but the cheese balls are to die for!!!!
(4)Theresa K.
A friend and I had a late dinner after catching a movie at the Art Craft theatre. I was nowhere near close to impressed with the beer selection. The most local thing that I saw was Bells Oberon, and I sat through drinking a Red Stripe (nowhere near local, but it was that, your regular domestics, blue moon, etc- From what I can remember) before I saw the bartender open up an Oberon for someone. When I ordered that, the waittress couldn't find it, and I mentioned it might be under the "Bell's Seasonal." For such a specialized little night, going to the Art Craft and The Willard, why would you want to drink something so mainstream? C'Mon, Willard, if you're so special, get some special beer! I ordered a little pizza with chicken and jalapinos. I like that you can choose whatever toppings, and it was pretty affordable (I think $6 or $7). The crust was very round, stiff and hard- sort of like frozen pizza crust. If I ever go back, I'm not going for the pizza. My friend got a mushroom swiss burger. The bun enveloped the burger itself. Eh. Not really impressed at all. I'd come back again and try something else if I were in the area, but I'd probably also just as rather find a another unique place. The ambience was pretty chill. There was a pretty nice outdoor seating area (we sat inside), and they were open late night.
(2)Randy B.
Good Pizza, fried cheese balls, han-and-cheese, and decent beer selection. I love the patio in the summer (face the East to avoid the sun in your eyes in the afternoon)
(4)Evan M.
After hearing about this place for years from my Indiana extended family, I finally made the trip and the visit to the Willard. It was breath-taking. A never-ending waterfall of chicken wings, nachos and late night appetizers washed down with beer. A must-stop when in Franklin, IN!
(4)Kevin C.
Been in Franklin for almost a year before I made it to the Willard for lunch. The historic hotel setting is special for many people and creates a series of smaller dining spaces in addition to the outdoor dining. Have heard the reputation for their pizza, I enjoyed a thin crust pep with sausage that was hot and full of quality ingredients. While the staff was extremely professional, there simply was not enough to keep up with the number of customers the day we went.
(4)Larry T.
This is the local gathering spot for my co-worker, friends, and I. The pizza is good. Try the spicy "Yahoo" seasoning. The wings are equally good and they have a wide selections of beers to try. There isn't a lot that beats a nice evening on the patio when the weather is good. I'll see you there.
(4)Duncan G.
Tried the Willard for the first time last night with my wife , our 19 year old college freshmen & her boyfriend. I had heard mostly good things about the Willard so I was anxious to try it. They have no parking lot so it's street parking where you can find it. Early on a Wednesday night it wasn't too hard. Place looks very nice from the outside and the entryway was cool as well. Sign said seat yourself so we did. First thing I noticed was the tables were pretty small for 4 people eating so keep that in mind if you visit. Our waitress was very good during the entire time as were the other staff. I'd give them a 4.5 out of 5. Was more then a bit surprised to hear that there was a charge for refills on soft drinks so I took the waitress's suggestion & ordered a pitcher of Coke. We got 6 bread sticks as an appetizer and they were very good. Seasoned well & with a good consistency.. it was served with either a nacho cheese or marinara dipping sauce on paper plates. it was then time for the entrees. The daughter's bf got a burger & fries which he thought was very good. My wife and daughter got a chicken dish that they were disappointed in due to the over seasoning which left it not tasting right. I had their pizza & I was VERY disappointed. It was the same recipe as the old local Jack's Pizza chain which for me was a bad sign. The sauce was so so, the sausage nothing remarkable and have others have commented on the crust was strangely stiff. Again the service was great but the food just doesn't warrant another trip I'm sorry to say.
(2)Chris B.
If Franklin had a local Mount Rushmore of eateries, this would be on it. Next to the Willard would be Don and Donas, Ann's Restaurant, and Richards Kitchen. As these four Presidential pals conveyed for great food, the land was infected and overrun with delicious atmosphere and taste. The Willard was a former hotel that has been turned into a resturaunt/bar. The food is pretty Americanized but is America at its best. The wings as well as the pizza are highly suggested by pretty much anyone. The Willard also has a yearly haunted house that I would advise attending. All in all, this is palace of tasty.
(4)Susie H.
Food was good, service pretty quick for a big group. Fried tenderloin didn't seem greasy at all. I'm with the others who question the no-free refills.
(4)D A P.
I'm mad that Evan reviewed The Willard before me! I too believe in The Willard. First place I ever had a drink in Indiana. Rolled into Franklin Friday night to meet my Hoosier friends (now LBCers) & their family there & I was not disappointed. I felt like I was walking into a big party at someone's house. It is in fact an old 2 story house (see photo) with a great patio right in the middle of town. Servers were nice & quick. We only had munchies: fries, mushrooms & wings. All good. My husband said the wings were great. Loud with music, but not too loud that you couldn't talk. Couple of tvs to watch, not hear, the big game. Always busy, but you can always find a seat. Needs bigger bathrooms. Two stalls? Not enough for those midwestern girls! They can consume many drinks which equals a crowded bathroom. Come on Willard! You have enough room in that big old house to add a 2nd bathroom! I'll be back in June- make it happen. Met the Moore clan there- that was half the occupancy. Learned in Franklin you can just drop the "Moore" name & you're in with the locals!
(4)Jesse S.
I don't think people in this area use Yelp. I guess there's not much need. LBC must represent. Anyway, for those people in the distant future who happen upon this review, here goes. The Willard is the nicest bar in the area. It closes at midnight, but if you're hammered enough to want to stay up, there are a few other less nice bars within walking distance. If you're not from the area, you're less likely than I am to see your 4th grade teacher drinking here than I've been. Then again, if you're drinking in this town, it's bound to happen. Wings are killer. And that's all I have to say about that.
(4)Sqirrl B.
Nice outside eating area, very pleasant. The staff could use some basic greeting training. My wrap was good. My coffee was awful - old, with only powdered creamer (ew) offered, and no refills offered. My jalapeño poppers didn't taste really fresh, more like supplied by a service. Dh, though, said his fish platter actually tasted like real seafood. High praise from him. I'd come back, maybe try the pizza next time.
(3)Ryan B.
Amazing wings amazing pizza great service. Best time is to go is during the week. They get crazy packed
(5)Jeanie W.
Always a fantastic experience there. Food is amazing and service is efficient and friendly. Get the bbq chicken pizza. It is really good. We love the outdoor seating and the historic building. Location is perfect.
(5)Susan S.
I feel bad writing this, but.... We have visited the Willard many times in the past. It is only after many experiences I write this. The Willard has demonstrated a consistent pattern of poor service. They do not have a hostess stand. When inquiring they had no idea which tables were open. Because of no hostess stand people would walk in sit down at tables that had not been bussed. Which created confusion for the wait staff of not knowing if those sitting at the table were people hanging out and had finished their meal. Once we get a table it is another fifteen plus minutes till we are greeted and asked for our drink order. The Willard could be a great place but misses the mark.
(1)Linsey G.
Three stars doesn't seem like near enough, and four stars seems a little generous, but since 3.5 is not an option, I've decided on the latter. I recently went to The Willard with a fairly large group, where the service was pretty great even though our server was noticeably perturbed by our general loudness and chaos -- not necessarily a bad thing, as I totally understood her frustration, but her losing patience with us was certainly noticeable. I enjoyed the outdoor seating, as it proved to be a good space for a larger group. The food was pretty good, too. My mom and I shared a pizza and we loved how much cheese was on it. It seems most pizza places skimp on the cheese anymore, so we were mostly impressed by that.
(4)Gretchen S.
This place has a good beer selection and a nice atmosphere. The waitress was incredibly pleasant, but the food selection was lacking. Few healthy options and the pizza was terrible! The cheese was tasteless and I couldn't even tell there was any sauce on the pizza. The Hawaiian didn't have much pineapple on it and was overloaded with banana peppers and jalepenos, maybe to make up for the tasteless cheese. I'd come here again to drink but skip the food.
(2)Debra C.
Service was slow. Food was mediocre. They put an appetizer on our bill that we didn't order. Luckily, we caught it and they corrected it before we paid. Not a great experience.
(2)Anna O.
A crisp fall day and a historic building contributed to the positive experience more than the food, which was fresh, but unimaginative. Almost felt like de ja vu in Matrix - I have seen and tasted the same house salads, burgers and sandwiches only about a thousand times before, is there an Agent Smith coming around the corner? Grateful to the server who did not forget our lonely group outside and served us promptly and with a smile.
(3)Heather H.
The area is really cute as is the renovated old hotel. The food is alright. Pub grub. The group I went with all got different sammies and burgers. Nothing special to write about. Just your basic foods. Overall, an affordable spot to stop in and try. Chill atmosphere to catch a game and grab a beer. Good for a casual date night I suppose.
(3)Katrina A.
The atmosphere is casual and can be a little loud. There isn't a hostess but worth the wait.
(5)Ian B.
If your looking for great bar food, nice atmosphere and friendly people in Franklin this is your spot. The Building itself is absolutely delightful. It was built in the 1860's and has some great architectural features. The main bar and the additional side bar (evenings and weekends) are right out of the prohibition era and give you that classic feel. The outdoor seating is the place to be though in the spring and summer months. The patrons here range from the locals that everyone knows, bikers making a quick stop for some food and drinks to families of all ages and sizes. The Willard specializes in their pizzas (our favorite is the margarita pizza) and tenderloins but their wings, burgers and pub style finger food is just as good. They do complete their food selection with salads, wraps and sandwiches. The beer selection is not over the top but does beat most places in Franklin. They have the normal light beers, but also carry sun king on tap and a good variety of bottled beer. Only issues we have seen so far is that depending on your server you may get a lack of service when they get really busy. Be patient and you'll be fine. Overall if you want good service, yummy food and awesome atmosphere you'll enjoy yourself here.
(4)Rachel S.
We ate here last Friday night. We were there from 9:30-10:30 and the place was seriously hoppin the entire time! Great local (indy) and national beer selection. Delicious quick pizza (would have given 5 stars but the cheese could have been crispier/browned on our pizza). Definitely had ingredients under the cheese so made it unique but delicious none the less. Great patio setting! Would definitely go back!
(4)David W.
Waited 15 minutes. Watched 4 tables come in after us, get served, while we sat. Walked out. Not the first time we've had bad service but will most likely be the last
(1)Colin B.
Both stars are for the building (which is beautiful!) We walk in and the signs say to seat yourself. It then takes 15 min before someone acknowledges us. We both order cheeseburgers when they come out, there is nothing on them except cheese. No lettuce, tomato, nothing! I asked and they said you have to order all of that. Staff was not rude, but not friendly either. Food was just okay. Nothing special. I might give it another chance, but probably not.
(2)Bob C.
Slow! Service can be very slow. The cool factor of the building can't carry the slow service or boring food.
(2)Amber P.
Love The Willard. Great memories here. Fantastic environment, good food, the wait staff is on it as much as they can be when it's so crowded.
(4)Tammy H.
We were looking for a place open late on Sunday during our drive from kentucky to Indianapolis. Luckily, The Willard was open until 10. The menu had enough variety to make it difficult to choose until our server suggested the cheese bites and the wings. Both were served fast and hot. We had great, friendly service and our meal for two including an app and wine came in at $30 - we'll be back again!
(5)Tom M.
The negative reviews here baffle me. I heard about this place and happened to be in Franklin, so we stopped in. The atmosphere is unique and worth the visit. You seat yourself, and the server is at your table quickly. The service is friendly and fast. We had the ribeye and tenderloin sandwiches. They were hand cut and prepared. The ribeye was tender and delicious, and the tenderloin was large and hand breaded. We substituted onion rings and had a basket of fried mushrooms as well. Everything was delicious and we will remember this place whenever we are in Franklin. The one odd thing is that there are no free refills for soft drinks except during the lunch hour. So go easy on your soft drink. Highly recommended.
(5)Celeste T.
It was pleasant to sit outside on the patio during dinner in a rather hot spell (high 80s or low 90s), just enough breeze to act as natural AC. We had a bottle of wine (too sweet) and a pizza with sausage and pepperoni. I agree with a previous reviewer that the crust was a bit too perfect, crisp and weird, much like frozen pizzas. I ended up switching to Woodchuck cider when I couldn't finish the too-sweet wine. I wish I remember what it was, but it was a concord grape wine...I should have known! Service was very nice overall, even though we came at shift change. Bathrooms were clean, and I love the architecture of the old building!
(3)Erin C.
Perfect location downtown Franklin and the best thin crust in town. The service is so so and it can get really crowded but if you're lucky enough to get a spot on the patio you won't regret it! Good atmosphere and a pretty decent booze selection (for Franklin).
(4)Scott M.
HISTORIC, FAMILY-OWNED LANDMARK What a great place with a great backstory. Nestled just off downtown Franklin, The Willard transitions the business and historic home districts. The restaurant/pub used to be an old inn in the day and it still maintains that inviting charm. The food is okay and reasonably priced. There is a full bar. The service in both the dining room and barroom depends upon whom is working. If you visit Franklin, The Willard should be a stop.
(4)April A.
This place has a large beer selection and let me say the cocktails are mixed to perfection. The prices are reasonable and the food is always fresh and tasty. The chips and queso are a must, and they are famous for the pizza. It gets busy so go early.So I suggest you get around 5 or your gonna be waiting for a table.
(5)Richard H.
If you're in Franklin -- maybe at the Artcraft -- you could do worse than stop in The Willard for a drink. We only had drinks so can't vouch for the food, and the beer list was decent, the drinks just fine. Service was friendly, even though the place was quite busy on Saturday night. The building itself (an old hotel) is very cool, with a particularly awesome sign indoors, and the really drunk people who were there celebrating a fiftieth birthday were awesome.
(3)Amy L.
Such a disappointing experience. A friend suggested this place since we were going to the theater next door this afternoon. So 5 of us were having lunch and then meeting a few others at the theater for 1 to see the movie. I figured getting there for 12 would give us enough time to have lunch. Nope. Not even close. There seemed to be only 2 waitresses and they kept telling us the computer system was done. Ok, I'm willing to be sympathetic, I've worked in retail, so I understand things can go wrong. Yet it took 15 minutes to get water we ordered. It was another 15 minutes before we even got to place our orders and it was 12:50 when our apps began to arrive. Any time we asked if they had an idea how long, they said the computers were down. And our main waitress had an attitude. We were not rude ever, and yet she never refilled our waters, asked how things were or even made a polite apology, like "I'm sorry this is taking so long, but thanks for your patience." None of the that. It was 1:06 by the time we got our meals. One friend ordered her wings to be a mix of 2 flavors, which the waitress said was ok to do. Yet she got her wings with one flavor, neither of them were the 2 she chose. I ordered a burger (no choice in how it was cooked) and it was tasteless. I had to scarf down that and some of the nachos I had for an app in order to go meet my friends. That was at 1:20. When I left, my friends stayed to get the checks and pay (mine too), the waitress gave them an attitude when they politely asked for their checks. Overall so bummed by the experience.
(1)Chip M.
8/28/2009 it's hotter than hell inside! Service mediocre at best. Not the best meal I've had locally that's certain ! Two thumbs down!
(1)Mikel I.
This was a good place before... It is a great place now. They hosted a birthday party for my brother in law and boom it was perfect. Prompt service great food and great prices. We will be using the Willard for a lot more events in the future. If you find yourself in a lunch break or at night looking for dinner I recommend stopping in and getting the pizza or the hot wings!
(5)Jared T.
I come here for lunch most of the time.... the pizza and the chips and queso are awesome. Parking is a pain right now with road construction.
(5)Susan S.
I don't get the bad reviews! It's a great place to take a family or have a beer after work. Fabulous prices & good food. Can't wait to go again!
(5)Chris M.
Pretty good beer selection and really good tenderloin! They do it right and don't pound it out until it is flat and dry. I had no idea this place existed, but if I ever find myself back in franklin I will likely stop in.
(4)Rick M.
Been there several times and loved it each time. Friendly, attentive staff, good food at a good price, excellent atmosphere. I highly recommend the marinated rib eye steak sandwich and the pizza.
(5)Heather S.
Eleven years ago I went on a first date with my now husband. It still has great food and a fun atmosphere.
(5)